Packing List (by Liz of NJ aruba Lover)

[Andrea J.]

a couple of years ago, liz made a check list/packing list!
she worked long and hard on this list.

she does have it in PDF format and maybe she can post the link for it.

PM Liz for the PDF version.


(this list is Liz's.......and the ATA and this Community Forum do not claim ownership......................liz gets full credit :-) )
VACATION CHECK-OFF LIST



TICKETS / ID / DOCUMENTS:
[ ] Plane Tickets
[ ] Passport (required after Dec. 31, 2006)
[ ] Visa
[ ] Drivers License for Car Rental
[ ] Notarized letter by both parents if taking another person’s child
[ ] Child Medical Records
[ ] Case for Passport/Travel Documents
[ ] Security Money Belt/Pouch:
- http://www.magellans.com/store/Comfo...tsSV603R?Args= (http://www.magellans.com/store/Comfort___Security___Wallets___Money_BeltsSV603R?A rgs=)
- www.easygoing.com/exp.html (http://www.easygoing.com/exp.html)
- http://securitymatters.about.com/gi/...ories.c om%2F (http://securitymatters.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=securitymatters&zu=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.travelsecurityaccessories.com% 2F)

MEDICAL INFORMATION:
[ ] Medical/Dental Insurance Cards
[ ] Doctor/Dentist/Pharmacy Phone #’s

CONFIRMATIONS #’S / PHONE NUMBERS:
[ ] Airline
[ ] Car Rental
[ ] Hotel
[ ] Dinner Reservations
[ ] Water Tours
[ ] Land Tours
[ ] Morning/Afternoon/Dinner Cruise
Other:
[ ] __________________________

CREDIT CARDS:
[ ] List of Credit Card account #’s & Phones #’s in case of stolen/loss.

Make 2 copies of above information. Keep separated in case one set gets lost.

THINGS TO DO:
[ ] Inform Credit Card Companies of vacation dates
[ ] Pay Bills
[ ] Arrange Pet Care
[ ] Post Office/Neighbor to hold mail
[ ] Stamps for Postcards - $.75 postage from Aruba
[ ] Library - Books/Audio Books/DVD Movies/CD’s
[ ] Adjust Thermostat
[ ] Set Timer (one/off times) for house lights
[ ] School Assignments from Teachers
[ ] Confirm Flight Schedule

Other Things To Do:
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________

MONEY:
[ ] Credit Cards
[ ] ATM/Debit Card
[ ] Travelers Checks
[ ] Cash (lot's of $1’s & $5’s for tips)

AIRPLANE:
[ ] Motion Sickness Pills/Patch
[ ] Medications
[ ] Airborne Tablets (take before flying)
[ ] Travel Pillow
[ ] Ear Plugs
[ ] Eye Mask
[ ] Headphones
[ ] Bottled Water
[ ] Juice
[ ] Soda
[ ] Energy Bars
[ ] Fruit
[ ] Chips
[ ] Snacks
[ ] Mints
[ ] Gum
[ ] Candy
[ ] Lozenges
[ ] Tissues
[ ] Hand Sanitizer Wipes
[ ] Altoids/Listerine Pocket Packs
[ ] Reading Material
[ ] Pen/Notepad

Other Airplane Items:
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________

VACATION FRIENDS / PERSONNEL:
[ ] Gifts for Maid/Personnel
[ ] Tip Envelopes/Thank You Notes
[ ] Contact Info: Friends in Aruba

HONEYMOONERS:
[ ] Documents with old and new name change
[ ] Scented Candles
[ ] Massage Oils
[ ] Make Appointment for couples Massage
[ ] Inform Resort of Honeymoon. Hotel may give complimentary Fruit Basket, Flowers or Champagne.

CLOTHES: Pack in Dry Cleaner Bags, Tissue or Vacuum Space Saving Bags
[ ] Shorts
[ ] Tank Tops
[ ] Polo Shirts
[ ] Capri’s
[ ] Woman/Girl Sun Dress
[ ] Special Dinner Outfit
[ ] Sweater/Light Jacket
[ ] Underwear
[ ] P.J.’s/Nightie
[ ] Bath Robe
[ ] Slippers
[ ] Sandals
[ ] Sneakers
[ ] Socks
[ ] Flip Flops
[ ] Beach/Shower Shoes
[ ] Swim Suits
[ ] Beach Cover-Up
MISC:
[ ] Purse
[ ] Earrings
[ ] Jewelry
[ ] Fanny Pack

Other Clothing Items:
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________

MEDICINE & MEDICAL SUPPLIES:
[ ] Blood Pressure Monitor
Diabetes:
[ ] Insulin
[ ] Needles
[ ] Test Strips
[ ] Monitoring Kit
[ ] Alcohol Wipes/Swabs
[ ] Cooler Pack

List Medications (keep in original containers):
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________

MEDICINE KIT:
[ ] Vitamins
[ ] Aspirin/Tylenol
[ ] Pepto Bismol
[ ] Tums
[ ] Midol/Motrin
[ ] Benadryl
[ ] Eye Drops
[ ] Nasal Spray
[ ] Antacid
[ ] Cough Drops
[ ] Band Aids
[ ] Cough/Cold Medicine
[ ] Thermometer
[ ] Antibiotic Ointment
[ ] Allergy Medicine
[ ] Ibuprofen
[ ] Anti-Diarrhea Remedy (Immodium)
[ ] Contact Lens Case/Solution

Other Medicine Kit Items:
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________

TOILETRIES: Pack in ziplock bags

Mouth:
[ ] Toothbrush
[ ] Toothpaste
[ ] Mouthwash
[ ] Dental Floss
[ ] Denture Care
Shower:
[ ] Shampoo
[ ] Conditioner
[ ] Bath/Face Soaps
[ ] Bubble Bath
[ ] Shower Cap
[ ] Bath Sponge/Loofah
[ ] Bath Powder
[ ] Foot Powder
Hair:
[ ] Hair Dryer
[ ] Curling Iron
[ ] Brush
[ ] Comb
[ ] Hair Spray
[ ] Hair Gel/Mousse
[ ] Anti-Frizz/Hair Straightener
[ ] Hair Clips/Pins/Bands/Scrunchi
Face/Body:
[ ] Deodorant
[ ] Body Lotion
[ ] Night Cream
[ ] Face Moisture Lotion
[ ] Hand Cream
[ ] Eye Cream
[ ] Lipstick
[ ] Lip Gloss
[ ] Compact Mirror
[ ] Makeup
[ ] Make-up Remover
[ ] Facial Cleaner
[ ] Toner
[ ] Blemish Cream
[ ] Perfume
[ ] Men’s Cologne
[ ] Razor/Blades
[ ] Shaving Cream
[ ] Feminine Hygiene Items
[ ] Men’s Personal Items
MISC:
[ ] Q-Tips
[ ] Tissues
[ ] Handi Wipes
[ ] Anti-Bacterial Hand Sanitizer
[ ] Tweezers
[ ] Nail File
[ ] Nail Clipper
[ ] Nail Polish/Remover
[ ] Nail Repair Kit
[ ] Mini Scissors
[ ] Sewing Kit
[ ] Eyeglass Repair Kit
[ ] Eyeglass Cleaner
[ ] Bath Brush (Nylon Net or Sponge) with long handle (great for applying sun lotions to back)

Other Toiletries:
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________

BEACH/SUN: Pack lotions in ziplock bags
[ ] Sunglasses
[ ] Sun Block
[ ] Lip Balm
[ ] Tanning Lotion
[ ] After Sun Lotion
[ ] Aloe Cooling Gel for Sunburn
[ ] Zinc Oxide
[ ] Soft Sided Cooler
[ ] Insulated Huggies for cans
[ ] Snorkel Gear
[ ] Carry-All Bag
[ ] Plastic/Ziplock Bags (wet items)
[ ] Beach Towels
[ ] Sun Hat/Visor
[ ] Thing-a-Majig: Plastic Waterproof Cylinder on rope. Hangs around neck. Holds keys, $, coins
[ ] Beach Chair Cover: http://www.abcdistributing.com/store...x=5&t=13&cart= (http://www.abcdistributing.com/store/0306F1/9.cfm?q=terry&prevIndex=3&nextIndex=5&t=13&cart=)
[ ] Pickup Little Switzerland Bag at Airport (coupons & carry-all bag)

Other Beach Items:
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________

SPORTS:
[ ] Spa/Exercise Outfit
[ ] Tennis Clothes/Equipment
[ ] Golf Clothes/Equipment
Other:
[ ] __________________________

KID PACKING LIST:
[ ] School Assignments
[ ] Toys
[ ] Doll
[ ] Small Ball
[ ] Books
[ ] Games
[ ] Puzzle
[ ] Hand Held Electronic Games
[ ] Coloring Book/Crayons
[ ] Drawing Pad
[ ] Colored Markers
[ ] Play Dough
[ ] Water Arm Swimmies
[ ] Inflatable Tube
[ ] Bag of Favorite Snacks/Cereals

Additional Kids Items:
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________
[ ] __________________________

MEMORIES:
[ ] Camera
[ ] Underwater Camera
[ ] Camcorder
[ ] Memory Card
[ ] Film [ ] Batteries
[ ] Battery Recharger
[ ] Power Cords

READING MATERIALS:
[ ] Reading Glasses
[ ] Contact Lens
[ ] Books/Magazines
[ ] Guide Books
[ ] Maps

KEEP IN TOUCH:
[ ] Note Pad and
[ ] Pen/Pencil for Trip Report (http://tripreports.visitaruba.com/)
[ ] Address Book

ELECTRONICS:
[ ] Cell Phone
[ ] I-POD/Walkman
[ ] Audio Books
[ ] Portable DVD Player
[ ] DVD Movies & CD’s
[ ] Batteries
[ ] Power Cords

WORK:
[ ] Laptop
[ ] Back-up Disks
[ ] Files
[ ] Palm Pilot/Blackberry
[ ] Power Strip
[ ] Calendar
[ ] Notepad
[ ] Pen & Pencils
[ ] Business Address/Phone Book
[ ] Pocket Calculator
[ ] Cassette Recorder

MISC:
[ ] Laundry Detergent
[ ] Fabric Softener Sheets
[ ] Laundry Bag
[ ] Stain Removal Wipes
[ ] Bug Spray
[ ] Disinfectant Wipes
[ ] Matches/Lighter
[ ] Suction Cups to Dry Bathing Suits on Patio Door
[ ] Small Flashlight/Reading Light
[ ] Room Sanitizer/Odor Spray
[ ] Wine Corkscrew
[ ] Beer/Soda Can Opener
[ ] Travel Beverage Mug
[ ] Casino Rewards Program Playing Cards

GROCERY LIST:
Food:
[ ] Milk
[ ] Eggs (or substitute)
[ ] Butter/Margarine
[ ] Breakfast Meats (Bacon/Sausage)
[ ] Salad Fixings
[ ] Tomatos
[ ] Vegetables
[ ] Fresh Fruit
[ ] Bread/Rolls
[ ] Cereal
[ ] Cold Cut Meats
[ ] Cheese
[ ] Hamburgers/Hot Dogs/Buns
[ ] Steak/Chicken/Fish
[ ] Pasta/Sauce
[ ] Condiments (Mustard, Mayo, Ketchup, Relish, Steak Sauce)
[ ] Salad Dressing
[ ] Ice Cream
[ ] Cake/Pie/Cookies
[ ] Cheese & Crackers
[ ] Chips/Snacks
Drinks:
[ ] Juice
[ ] Soda
[ ] Powdered Drinks (Crystal Light)
[ ] Coffee/Tea
Misc:
[ ] Coffee Filters
[ ] Sugar/Sweetener Packs
[ ] Salt/Pepper
[ ] Cooking Spray
[ ] Grill Matches
[ ] Foil for B-B-Q
[ ] Paper Towels
[ ] Paper Napkins
[ ] Plastic Dishes/Cutlery for B-B-Q
[ ] Dish Detergent/Sponge/Scrubby/Brillo Pad
[ ] Various sizes Ziploc Bags
Liquor:
[ ] Whiskey, Gin, Vodka, Tequila, Cordials
[ ] Beer
[ ] Wine/Wine Coolers
[ ] Drink Mixes

OTHER ITEMS:
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________
[ ] ______________________________

[qlaval]

Another solution:
http://www.magellans.com/store/Packing_Aids___Packing_OrganizersKT689?Args (http://www.magellans.com/store/Packing_Aids___Packing_OrganizersKT689?Args)=
http://image.magellans.com/mitcus/Images/products/main/kt689_dt.jpg

Yep me too. Purchased one on eBay for $8.95 a few weeks ago...:D

[Andrea J.]

the list was not meant for everyone to pack and take everything to aruba.
it is a guide, nothing more.

andrea



My oh My!!!! How many pieces of luggage do you take? Many of your checklist items are important, but you could really scaled down what you bring. I have been traveling to Aruba for at least 12 years (twice a year) and for at least the past 5 years I have traveled with 2 carry-ons. Your hotel has a blow dryer, the cosmetics can be minimized to shampoo, conditioner, gel and hair spray (and if you need any over the counter medications, they are available in your hotel gift shop and the pharmacies. Who needs make-up once you get a base tan (a little lip gloss and mascara is sufficient.) All that food you went shopping for (why go on vacation?) Sure, I buy staples at the local grocery store (fruit, cheese, wine and maybe a few other snacks,) but you just bought out the grocery store! Try to remember that you are on VACATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just reading your list made me exhausted thinking about my upcoming vacation so, I tore up your list!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am going to relax!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!;)

[AuntieMame]

It's a comprehensive list. As such, it is invaluable. One has only to copy and paste into a word processor and delete the items not needed.

One would think that would be clear.

(Apparently not.) :rolleyes:

[cindyo]

I love the list, its perfect. Basically, you don't have to think, the list does it for you !!! I will thank you for enternity, it has been passed along to all we travel with.

[dlser]

Thank you, thank you!!!
I always make up a list that's way too disorganized!!
This is the best!
I'll copy the file and have it for each trip I go on
Thank you, again,
Denise from Wilmington, MA

[MikeM]

Thanks Liz, Printed off a caopy and save it as well. Very helpful and will stop that last minute thinking if I have everything.

[bkka]

Awesome, thank you! :)

[comshaw1]

I just scanned the list and noticed the verboten liquids. No longer are liquids permitted on most flights. You'll be asked to throw it away or drink it on the spot. Empty bottles, however, are not a problem. What I have done is to take an empty water bottle, then filled it at an airport drinking fountain while waiting for the flight.

Most flights offer in-flight beverage service but there is still much discussion about the safety of beverages made with water and/or ice from the bacterial-laden holding tanks of planes. Carrying one's own water is one alternative.

[Lindabug]

:DThank you so much for the list, now my personal list will be much longer. I'm headed to Aruba on Saturday!!! :)

[KATH2ME]

Wow , What A List, Its Hard To Believe, But We Really Do Bring That Much Stuff, We Think All We Need Is A Couple Pairs Of Shorts A Bathing Suit And Some Shirts, Before You Know It, You've Got That Whole List, Thanks It Will Be A Check List For Me.
Was Wondering What Do You Think ? Oct Or Nov ? Marriott Or Radisson ?
Anyone Help , Please

[jcmelly]

radisson. I have stayed at both and the Radisson is not as fancy but much quiter and pool/beach is nicer. Radisson rooms are smaller but the resort makes up for it.
Have fun

[pkornnh]

I am a Marriott guy. First trip on the island was to the Marriott and Stellaris Casino. We had a wonderful 10 day vacation, got hooked on the island, and have been back at least once a year since. We have not stayed at the Radisson, but love The Sunset Grill restaurant and the grounds are great.
You probably not go wrong with either, but we now own at the Marriott Surf Club and really like the many options between the three Marriott.

[Megan8607]

Hello!! I hope this is the right place for this, but, I see that a postcard WAS .72 from Aruba to the US, but, postage has gone up within the past month. How much is it now?

[coqui]

I am unable to access the pdf file/link. Has it been removed?

[Liz - Aruba Lover]

I am unable to access the pdf file/link. Has it been removed?

Here's the link
VACATION ARRANGEMENTS & PACKING LIST (http://allaboutaruba.net/Documents/Packing%20List.pdf)

You might also be interested in this form: Travel Info & Emergency Contacts form that can be filled out online and downloaded to your computer to print out.

TRAVEL INFO & EMERGENCY CONTACTS (http://allaboutaruba.net/Documents/Traveler-Emergency%20Contact%20Info.pdf)

[cindyo]

Liz, thanks for posting the emergency list....cindy

[coqui]

WOW! Those lists are fantastic. Thank you so very much for taking the time to compile those. I have 16 more day till I hit the Aruba sand so I will surely make use of getting all the last minute items at the store and your list will be VERY handy!

:thumb: Thanks! Coqui

[Andreamay]

Anyone got any idea's on gifts i could take to Aruba (from the uk) to give to the maid/staff of the hotel for good service.
Not expencive items just somthing around $20-40/£10-20
Something that they could not buy in Aruba.

Andremay

[happythoughts4future]

Is there a way to get that list in its original format? Not pdf so I can edit it? In other words, would like the original document if its possible to get.

Thanks

[animalcrueltynjusa]

What is the advantage of packing a laptop to bring to Aruba? What are the disadvantages of bringing one on vacation?

[Arubalisa]

What is the advantage of packing a laptop to bring to Aruba? What are the disadvantages of bringing one on vacation?
For us the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.


Advantages:

Keeping in touch with family.
Downloading photos from your camera to laptop for back up.
Burning photos from the laptop to Cd or DVD for additional back up.
Checking in with work (yes unfortunately some people have to)
Posting on this forum about your trip. :)
Disadvantages:

We fly Delta...Counts as a "personal item" by the airline.

If you are a woman you can only bring a purse in addition to the laptop.
If you are a man, you could only bring a carry on.

More of a hassle going through xray screening at TSA screening points.

There are two xray scanning points for US citizens departing Aruba.

[Andrea J.]

advantages imo include:
able to go online
able to do some work if need be
able to download photos
able to post daily reports to us on this forum
able to comunicate with all at home

disadvantages:
another piece of luggage/carry on
chance that it may get damaged
the inability to lock it up in the average size room safe at resort
using precious vacation time being on the computer


but, it is a personal decision
i have only brought my laptop once.

if we do go in january, we will bring the laptop.
for all of the reasons i mentioned and ignoring all of the disadvantages.

andrea
What is the advantage of packing a laptop to bring to Aruba? What are the disadvantages of bringing one on vacation?

[Andrea J.]

hahahaha lisa we are ON the same wavelength
andrea

[Arubalisa]

hahahaha lisa we are on the same wavelength
andrea
:d :) :d :) :d

[mtnfoke]

I will be taking my laptop in December. I plan to put it in my carry on backpack duffle do-hickey bag, and still be able to take another small carry-on, so space isn't an issue. We can watch videos on the plane- We have 3- 3 hour flights, so usually no movies. We can recharge in the airports between flights. Travelling with a 4 yr old, that can be a make or break situation for that long of a day. Being able to get online once we are there is very advantageous to look stuff up! I also unfortunately need to keep in touch with work, and with our housesitter as we'll have no phone service.
The only con is having to get it all out for inspection, but that will only be once on the way there and once on the way back.

[sunworshipperII]

I have one too take it on every trip its a terrific. I wouldn't travel without it even gave it to my mom to use on their Med cruise.

[BGP]

We used this list for our recent trip. It was very helpful. We found once in Aruba we had taken way too many clothes. Things we could not have done without were lots of sunscreen, refillable water bottles for use on the beach and our hats.

[kuss509]

:cool::cool:

[Vicky464]

Liz - thanks for the list.

If anyone is interested, I turned it into a real easy to use and print MS EXcel Spreadsheet.

send me a private message if you want a copy

[BeachBum25]

Traveling with 2 young children these days, my wife and I start our list about a month out. Who would have ever guessed it would take that long to get organized. Thanks for posting this list for us. Some of the stuff is already included on ours but some was not. Very helpful!

[jenn630]

The latest updated one is on page one, the fouth post?

[ShawnandAmanda]

Wow I want to say the lists are great! They definitely help a first timer here! I wasn't sure what types of things to take or do but this is awesome! Thank you! :)

[tirrell143]

Great tool, tyvm. This will helpus first timers out more than you know! :)

[peterharman]

Wow, the list will be very helpful for a first timer like me. thanks a lot.

[sunshine0392003]

Liz,

Thank you so much for the list I'm packing this weekend for our trip next weekend!!

[jenn630]

Liz,

Thank you so much for the list I'm packing this weekend for our trip next weekend!!

ditto for me. Thanks so much!

[miesk5]

May we suggest one addition?
Keep a copy of your Passport ID pages in your bag/wallet or checked luggage.
"Prior to departing on an international trip, make a copy of the passport Identification Pages on the inside cover of your passport (these are the two pages that include your photograph and your detailed passport information). Possessing a copy of the official information will not serve as a replacement for a passport lost while traveling abroad but will facilitate initiating a passport replacement request at a U.S. Embassy. .."
more @ http://www.thereareplaces.com/infgdes/docs/cpypsprt.htm

US Dept Of State also advises;
"...
Make two photocopies of the passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license and the credit cards you plan to take. Leave one copy of each with family or friends at home, and pack the other copies separately from the originals. Leave a copy of the serial numbers of your travelers’ checks with a friend or relative at home. Carry your copy with you in a separate place and, as you cash the checks, cross them off the list. ..
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/tips_1232.html

Enjoy Aruba friends!

[sunnysmiles]

My SIL learned this the hard way. She lost her passport when she was in Germany and had nothing to go off of. There were many phone calls back to the US to her parents etc. Pain in the butt!
When we received our passports there was a card with it that we had to write certain information on. We brought them with us - one had the passports, the other the cards, and we left copies at home with the parents. Thankfully none of it was needed but it made us feel better!


May we suggest one addition?
Keep a copy of your Passport ID pages in your bag/wallet or checked luggage.
"Prior to departing on an international trip, make a copy of the passport Identification Pages on the inside cover of your passport (these are the two pages that include your photograph and your detailed passport information). Possessing a copy of the official information will not serve as a replacement for a passport lost while traveling abroad but will facilitate initiating a passport replacement request at a U.S. Embassy. .."
more @ http://www.thereareplaces.com/infgdes/docs/cpypsprt.htm

US Dept Of State also advises;
"...
Make two photocopies of the passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license and the credit cards you plan to take. Leave one copy of each with family or friends at home, and pack the other copies separately from the originals. Leave a copy of the serial numbers of your travelers’ checks with a friend or relative at home. Carry your copy with you in a separate place and, as you cash the checks, cross them off the list. ..
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/tips_1232.html

Enjoy Aruba friends!


Thank you for the list. Some very valuable things we don't want to forget!

[miesk5]

yw Sunny!
More thanks to LIZ and all the folks who contributed to this List!

btw, I forfgot to see if anyone included a wallet sized list of of all Meds, past medical history (any spare parts removed such as what da Navy took out of me over da years); allergies and Doctors' names, addys & phone numbers.

[wrclinda]

Great lists Liz, Thanks!!

[Spanky]

Holy Crow thats a good checklist :)

[felle442]

Thanks so much...will use it to supplement the one I created years ago. You have some really good items on here.

[felle442]

Our laptop has been invaluable on our recent Aruba trip. Allows up to look up phone numbers and addresses for restaurants without incurring local phone charges. Also being able to call back home using SKYPE outweighs all the disadvantages in my opinion.

[Andrea J.]

absolutely correct about the laptop and skype
and
this packing checklist is great
liz did an excellent job


Our laptop has been invaluable on our recent Aruba trip. Allows up to look up phone numbers and addresses for restaurants without incurring local phone charges. Also being able to call back home using SKYPE outweighs all the disadvantages in my opinion.

[Arubalisa]

Packing for Aruba (http://www.aruba.com/ExploretheIsland/TravelInfo/packing_for_aruba.aspx)

[TravelDuff]

I agree - this is an awesome checklist! I assume it is an overall general list but it made me question a few things. We are staying at the Tam
1) the list mentions beach towels. I am assuming that we do NOT have to pack beach towels - correct?
2) Beach shoes - is the sand (in and out of the water) soft or rough with shells and rocks?
3) should we make a reservation for a snorkel cruise now or wait until we get to Aruba?

Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks!

[Arubalisa]

We are staying at the Tam
1) the list mentions beach towels. I am assuming that we do NOT have to pack beach towels - correct?

The Tamarijn has a plentiful supply of beach towels. If you have them, bring clips or clothes pins to keep your towel from blowing onto the sand and down the beach.


2) Beach shoes - is the sand (in and out of the water) soft or rough with shells and rocks?
We have stayed at the Tamarijn 4 times now. Personally we do not use them but others do. If you have tender feet, DO bring them. Think Murphy's law, if you bring them, you won't need them. if you don't you will.

3) should we make a reservation for a snorkel cruise now or wait until we get to Aruba?
I know some places like Jolly Pirates will give you a discount for booking online in advance. Otherwise, if your plans are flexible I would say you could wait until you arrive. If booking through the concierges at the Tamarijn you will only be offered De Palm excursions.

[TravelDuff]

Thanks for the quick response! We're getting excited! Can't wait! Too bad work has to be so CRAZY leading up to it - and then again when we return. My goal is to leave it all behind!

[jeffnev]

[QUOTE=TravelDuff;178105]

3) should we make a reservation for a snorkel cruise now or wait until we get to Aruba?

We stay at the Surf Club on Palm Beach so I'm not sure if it is different on Eagle Beach, but you can choose and book your tours on the beach (snorkeling, jet skis, tubing, sunset cruises) from many of the operators who are set up there, so don't feel pressured by your hotel's "deals" with their vendors. We have never had a problem booking a trip-probably only an issue if you have a large group, so get down to Aruba and book when you are in the mood. There are also discount coupons or other offers in the books you get at the airport when you land so you can usually save some money or get a free tshirt, etc. We have used a number of different operators for a variety of activities and sometimes the "bigger guys" like Red Sail are better, some have more fun trips if kids are with you like the "Pirate" ship with the rope swing, and some are better if you want a more serious snorkeling with only a few people like the Dolphin (Delphi tours).

The greatest thing about Aruba is you can usually decide to do something at the spur of the moment whether it's an activity or a restaurant and generally be able to do it as long as you have some flexibility. Our motto in Aruba is "no shoes, no socks, no clocks". We are heading down 2 weeks from today and I am already dreaming of relaxing :cool:

http://tickers.tickerfactory.com/ezt/d/4;10732;0/st/20100705/e/Aruba+Time%21%21/k/5766/event.png (http://www.tickerfactory.com/)

[a1patti]

Hello fellow Aruba lovers, To try to keep the weight of our suitcases down, I found Purex 3 in 1 laundry sheets that weigh practically nothing. Thank you everyone for making me feel so welcome!!! Keep those restaurant reviews coming. :) Patti

[Andrea J.]

love those purex sheets for travel.
not so wild about them for use at home.....they leave a waxy coating on the dryer walls.

[a1patti]

Thanks for the heads up on using the purex 3 in1 laundry sheets in my own dryer! Thank you all for your great tips. I have packed the springway floats, clothespins, Oggi wide mouth water bottles, underwater film, and plenty of fives and ones. I found a luggage scale with a tape measure on sale at TJMax for 3 dollars, and the oggi insulated water bottles with a built in strap were on sale for 7 dollars!!!! Now I have more money to spend in Aruba, LOL!!!:D

[purpleangel]

love those purex sheets for travel.
not so wild about them for use at home.....they leave a waxy coating on the dryer walls.

My uncle and SIL's stepdad are both firefighters. Dryer sheets are the #1 cause of dryer fires because they leave a buildup on the inside of the dryer as well as the vent pipe.

[murphmom]

Liz, love your list, you included some ideas I had not thought of. Very helpfull Thanks

[arubaislove]

Wow, I am printing that out! Thank you!!

[hockeymom]

Just printed out Liz's packing list. Do this every year just to make sure we don't forget anything. Another great idea from this forum!!

[momee612]

Liz - thank you so much for the Packing list!! Sounds silly, but I would have forgotten my health insurance card if I hadn't checked out your list. So excited for first trip to Aruba!:)

momee

[Andrea J.]

the health insurance card is probably worthless in aruba.

if in need of medical, you will have to pay cash or credit card, save receipts....(get them in ENGLISH) and then submit to your insurance company when you get home.


Liz - thank you so much for the Packing list!! Sounds silly, but I would have forgotten my health insurance card if I hadn't checked out your list. So excited for first trip to Aruba!:)

momee

[rapp110]

Does anyone bring groceries from home. Thinking of bringing coffe , tea, sugar, etc. I know they are expensive in Aruba but wonder if it's worth packing these items.

[Andrea J.]

YES
check out this thread http://www.aruba.com/forum/f35/bringing-food-states-aruba-41013/

those items you mentioned take up minimal space and weight.

lots of folks bring lots of stuff. (me for example.....when we do not have to pay for checked bags)
QUOTE=rapp110;211221]Does anyone bring groceries from home. Thinking of bringing coffe , tea, sugar, etc. I know they are expensive in Aruba but wonder if it's worth packing these items.[/QUOTE]

[sunkissedbaby00]

I just want to thank Liz for this list. I have used it for every trip since we went to Aruba for the first time in 2010 and it has been invaluable. I'm printing it again for our trip in April!

[hockeymom]

How funny you should bring this up. I was just going to search for it. I also use it every year, just to double check we haven't forgotten anything. Printing it out right now - thanks Liz!!

[beachgirl4ever]

Thanks, we have been to Aruba many times but as usual it is a last minute "do we have everything"? it is nice to have a list that is so organized and covers all travelling groups!
Thanks....printing and ticking things off now!